The USS Rafael Peralta, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, and the Royal Canadian Navy’s Halifax-class frigate HMCS Ottawa conducted a routine transit through the strait on Wednesday, the US Navy said. The transit through the Taiwan Strait has raised concerns in China, prompting the Chinese military to be on high alert. The US Navy has emphasized that this was a routine operation and not meant to provoke China. China considers Taiwan a part of its territory and has expressed its displeasure with any foreign military activity in the strait. This crossing by the US and Canadian ships could further strain the already tense relations between China and the US, as well as China and Canada. Both the US and Canada have been increasing their presence in the region to counter China’s growing influence. The Taiwan Strait has been a point of contention between China and the US, with several similar transits by US warships and aircraft taking place in recent years. China has warned foreign countries to stay away from the strait and has threatened to take necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and security. The US and Canada, along with other countries, including Australia, have been vocal in their support for Taiwan and have condemned China’s aggressive actions in the region.